Abu Dhabi Media’s English language newspaper, The National, has switched to printing on 100 percent recycled paper starting today (December 11).

The move reinforces the publication’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, and will significantly reduce its impact on the environment by reducing energy consumption and waste sent to landfill, a statement said.

The switch from conventional paper to fully recycled paper comes with the support and sponsorship of Masdar, regional leaders in sustainable thinking, a statement from the company said.

The Emirates currently has one of the highest rates of waste per person in the world. Recycling a ton of paper can help save 17 trees as well as over 7,000 gallons of water, and is also more energy-efficient, requiring on average 60 percent less energy compared to producing virgin paper.

Hassan Fattah, editor in chief of The National, said: “In this industry, we aware of our impact on the environment, and how we can play our part to become more sustainable. We all have a responsibility to think long term and assess how we can reduce our carbon footprint while still delivering a high quality product. Moving to printing on 100 percent recycled paper is one small positive step we can make to reduce our impact on the planet.”

Dr Sultan Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar, said: “We are pleased to partner with The National on this initiative and applaud Abu Dhabi Media on taking proactive steps to enhance its corporate sustainability. This project serves as an example of Abu Dhabi’s strong support and commitment to environmental stewardship.”

The National kick-started its environmental commitment in 2010 with its inaugural ‘Green Issue’, a special eco-focused edition dedicated to sustainability, the statement said.

The issue was part of the paper’s ongoing ‘Earth Matters’ initiative, which aims to draw attention to environmental issues in the region, it said. – TradeArabia News Service